The Serbian community in Biddeford, Maine, came together on September 13 for the annual celebration of the Patronal Feast Day of the Parish of the Synaxis of Serbian Saints at St. Demetrius Serbian Orthodox Church. The celebration brought together parishioners, families and children for a day centered on Orthodox faith, Serbian tradition and community fellowship. The gathering began with a Holy Hierarchical Liturgy led by His Grace Bishop Irinej of Washington, New York and Eastern America, together with Protopresbyter Stavrophor Ivan Marjanović. During his sermon, Bishop Irinej focused on love as one of the foundations of Christian life, reflecting on Christ’s teachings about love for God and for one’s neighbor. He emphasized that showing love toward others brings people closer to God and spoke about the importance of unity, harmony and mutual care within the Church community. His message also gave the celebration a broader meaning, connecting the traditional parish feast with the everyday values that bring members of a religious community together.
Following the Liturgy, the traditional blessing and cutting of the Slava bread took place, with many of the children present taking part in the ceremony. This important Serbian Orthodox tradition was followed by a festive luncheon prepared by this year’s Kumovi, Miljan and Jelena Simić and their family. The role of Kumovi, which carries an important place in the celebration of a parish Slava, will pass to Milen and Jasmina Krsmanović and their family for next year’s celebration. The gathering also included a special prayer service for students and young people as they begin the new school year. Bishop Irinej prayed for students to receive wisdom, strength and success in their education, while asking for God’s protection and guidance throughout their lives. The service added a special focus on the younger generation, highlighting the role of the parish in supporting children and young people as they grow in both their education and their faith.
The celebration concluded with a shared Slava luncheon and fellowship among parishioners. Beyond the religious ceremony itself, the gathering provided an opportunity for Serbian families in Maine to spend time together and preserve traditions that connect the community with its cultural and spiritual heritage. Through the Slava celebration, shared meals, participation by children and communal prayer, the parish continued a tradition that brings generations together while keeping Serbian Orthodox customs alive within the Serbian American community.
